Utah State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, applied skills training and an option for a research thesis or professional practicum. Core themes include sustainable production systems, food security and nutrition, agroecology, international agricultural development and the economics and policy that shape farming systems worldwide.

• Global agricultural systems: comparative study of farming systems, supply chains and cultural contexts that influence production and consumption across regions.
• Sustainable agriculture and agroecology: principles and practices for enhancing productivity while conserving soil, water and biodiversity.
• Food security and nutrition: analysis of food access, stability and utilisation at household and policy levels, with tools for programme design and evaluation.
• Policy, institutions and development economics: micro- and macro-level approaches to agricultural policy, markets, value chains and rural livelihoods.
• Research methods and quantitative tools: study design, statistics, GIS, participatory methods and monitoring & evaluation used in international agriculture projects.
• Practicum or thesis option: students typically choose between a research thesis or an applied practicum/internship with a development organisation, government agency or private sector partner; fieldwork and international placements are frequently available through departmental partnerships.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental science, natural resources, development studies or a closely related discipline, and demonstrate a strong academic record. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining your interests and career goals, a current CV or résumé, and two or three letters of reference from academic or professional referees.

Additional requirements may include evidence of relevant field or professional experience, portfolio materials for certain research interests, and proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English. Specific departmental requirements can vary, and applicants are advised to consult the programme admissions page for details.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across international development, government, research and the private sector. Common career destinations include:

• Programme officer, technical specialist or monitoring & evaluation specialist with international NGOs and multilateral agencies.
• Policy analyst or advisor in ministries of agriculture, food security units or international policy organisations.
• Researcher or project manager in university research centres, think tanks or agricultural research institutes.
• Consultant for agribusiness, supply-chain firms and sustainability-focused enterprises.
• Extension or capacity-building specialist working with farmer organisations, cooperatives or extension services.

Why study at Utah State University

Utah State has a long-established focus on agriculture and natural resources, with faculty expertise spanning crop and livestock systems, agroecology, economics and development. The university’s extension network and research stations provide strong applied-learning opportunities and pathways to fieldwork. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across colleges and from partnerships with international development agencies and NGOs that support practicum placements and applied research.

The programme’s location also supports hands-on training in varied production systems and natural-resource contexts, while university resources—such as research laboratories, GIS facilities and faculty-led field projects—help students develop the technical skills needed for careers in international agriculture.